The class of 2017 received a variety of tips from the WKU administration and the “sleep doctor” keynote speaker at the freshmen assembly on Wednesday night.

President Gary Ransdell welcomed the freshmen and told them to stay focused during their time here at WKU.

“Don’t let courses that don’t count towards your degree slow you down,” Ransdell said.

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Bowling Green senior Keyana Boka, president of the Student Government Association, also spoke to the crowd. Boka said it was important that the freshman get involved in student life.

“Your time in college is a time of connections,” Boka said. “The Hilltopper community provides many opportunities for you to become academically, culturally, and socially involved.”

Ransdell said staying connected with each other is important.

“Reach out to your fellow classmates,” Ransdell said. “Look out for each other, protect each other.”

Ransdell also told the freshman about various symbols and traditions at WKU including the Big Red Towel.

Gordon Emslie, provost and vice president for academic affairs, said there is a straightforward reason for why the students were at WKU.

“To earn a degree,” Emslie said.

The freshman then put a “Class of 2017” pin on themselves. Ransdell told the freshman to keep up with the pin and they will receive a second pin when they graduate. The pins symbolize the beginning and end of the college experience.

The keynote speaker, James Maas, who has authored and co-authored books such as Power Sleep and Sleep for Success, said sleep is important in college life.

“Sleep is a necessity,” Maas said. “It is not a luxury.”

Maas said sleep affects many things such as mood, alertness, thinking, and general health.

“Sleep deprivation makes you clumsy, stupid, unhealthy, and it shortens your life.” Maas said.

During his presentation, Maas showed the audience videos that highlighted the negative effects of not getting enough rest. The presentation also contained tips to get a better night’s sleep.

“Good night and sweet REMs,” Mass said in reference to a stage of sleep.

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Gamaliel Freshman Darrion Hamilton said the assembly was informative, but will not have a major change is his sleeping habits, or the habits of others. 

“I’d say few will, but majority probably won’t,” Hamilton said.